Letter from Tom

PDF PPAC

For People with Parkinson's, It's Personal

Dear Friend of PDF:

Much like you, my colleagues and I on PDF’s People with Parkinson’s Advisory Council (PPAC), have a very personal interest in supporting PDF. That’s why in the coming weeks, we will be sharing the stories of PDF-funded researchers who are making a difference, and asking you to support their important work.

Each of us who serves on PPAC has a story that has led us to guide PDF in its efforts to find the cause(s) and a cure for Parkinson’s. Each of us has challenges. I was diagnosed with PD more than four years ago. It hasn’t stopped me from doing the things I love, like snowboarding, cycling and traveling with my wife and children. And it hasn't stopped me from doing the things I need to do, professionally and socially.

But I know that so far, I am fortunate. Parkinson’s affects people in different ways and progresses at different rates. It can be a tremor for one person, slowness for another, and for some, it can mean eventually losing the ability to function independently.PDF knows that time is of the essence for people with Parkinson’s. So PDF is funding researchers such as the three you’ll meet this month – Gammon Earhart, P.T., Ph.D., Christopher Hess, M.D., and Matthew Farrer, Ph.D. – who are getting things done. Each of them is taking a unique approach toward finding new treatments and – we hope – one day, a cure for Parkinson's disease.

It’s the support of donors like you that makes this possible. As Chair of PPAC, I ask you to please take a moment to donate today and help us to fund the important research that will improve the lives and futures of people touched by Parkinson’s.

PDF's work in Parkinson's research, education and advocacy is made possible by your contributions. Make a donation today to support our mission. Thank you for your generosity.

If you have or believe you have Parkinson’s disease, then promptly consult a physician and follow your physician’s advice. This email is not a substitute for a physician’s diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease or for a physician’s prescription of drugs, treatment or operations for Parkinson’s.